Patent · US Active

Selective laser sintering powder recycle system

US7887316B2 · kind B2 · utility

45Cited by
16References
9Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventor

Key dates

Filing dateFeb 27, 2009
Grant dateFeb 15, 2011
Priority date
Expiry dateFeb 27, 2029

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
  • CPC primaryY02W30/62
  • WIPO fieldMaterials, metallurgy
  • WIPO sectorChemistry

Abstract

A method and apparatus for forming three-dimensional objects by laser sintering that includes the use of dense phase pneumatic conveying to internally recycle overflow powder, and to thoroughly blend overflow, recovered and virgin powder to provide a consistent powder feed mix to a laser sintering machine. Overflow powder from the laser sintering machine is recovered and recycled back into the laser sintering machine for reuse. The approach results in a compact and reliable powder recycle system with complete blending and minimum attrition to the handled powder.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.